Many veterans who served during the Vietnam War and in certain parts of Korea or Thailand were unknowingly exposed to Agent Orange, a chemical herbicide used by the U.S. military. Decades later, we now know that Agent Orange contained toxins that can cause serious health problems, including different forms of cancer, type 2 diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, heart disease, and other long-term illnesses. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) recognizes these conditions as “presumptive,” meaning that if a veteran served in a location where Agent Orange was used and later develops one of these illnesses, the VA presumes it is connected to their service.
This matters because it removes the burden of proof from the veteran. You don’t have to show exactly how you were exposed—the fact that you served in certain places during certain times may be enough to establish your claim. Veterans who served on land in Vietnam, in the inland waterways (“brown water” Navy), and in certain units in Korea are included, and some Navy veterans who served offshore may also qualify.
Families often ask if benefits are available to survivors, and the answer is yes. If a veteran passed away from a condition related to Agent Orange, a surviving spouse or dependent child may be entitled to compensation. These benefits can make a meaningful difference, especially when a family has lost someone to an illness caused by exposure decades earlier.
At our firm, we help veterans and families understand whether their health conditions may be linked to Agent Orange, gather the right medical and service records, and guide them through the claims or appeals process when benefits are denied.
Next Step: If you or a loved one served in Vietnam, Korea, or areas affected by Agent Orange and now face health issues, reach out to us. We can review your service and medical records to see if you qualify for benefits or survivor compensation.
